Tornadoes & Severe Weather

Tornados and Severe Weather Overview

Severe weather refers to any dangerous meteorological phenomena with the potential to cause damage, serious social disruption, or loss of human life. High winds, hail, excessive precipitation, and wildfires are forms and effects of severe weather, as are thunderstorms, downbursts, lightning, and tornadoes. Regional and seasonal severe weather phenomena include blizzards, snowstorms, and ice storms.

Tornado Watch or Warning

Tornado Watch

Tornado Warning

An actual tornado has been identified in the area by spotters and/or radar.

If in the warning area, seek shelter immediately. Stay away from windows and exterior doors. Basements, interior hallways on the lower floors and small interior rooms on the lower floors offer the best shelter.

Know the location of your nearest shelter in advance.

Do not open windows; this can increase damage to the building.

Report injuries and damage on campus to the IU Police Department at 911 (9-911 will also work from an on-campus phone). Also, notify your local Campus Facilities Services or Physical Plant Offices of damage and your departmental administrative office.

If in a vehicle, get out and seek shelter in a sturdy building. If a building is not available, lying flat in a depression such as a ditch or ravine offers some protection.

Thunder and lightning and weather sirens

Thunder and lightning

If you hear thunder less than 30 seconds after seeing a flash of lightning, seek safe shelter immediately.

Weather Sirens

IUPUI / Indianapolis

Marion County operates tornado sirens which are tested every Friday at 11:00 AM. Upon hearing the siren for a weather emergency, follow the steps above for a tornado warning.